The Differences Between Lithium Iron Phosphate and Ternary Lithium Batteries: A Must-Read for New Energy Vehicle Buyers

The most important concern for consumers isn't the name or material of the battery, but whether the battery can deliver a good driving experience. Energy density is a critical factor in evaluating battery performance. Generally, the higher the energy density, the more energy the battery can store at the same weight, leading to a longer driving range for the vehicle.
 

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries have an energy density of around 110Wh/kg, while ternary lithium batteries typically have an energy density of around 200Wh/kg. This means that vehicles equipped with ternary lithium batteries generally have a longer range compared to those with LFP batteries. For instance, the Zeekr 009 with a 140kWh battery and the NIO with a 150kWh battery can achieve an extreme driving range of nearly 1,000 kilometers on a single charge.

However, a larger battery capacity doesn't necessarily mean it's better. Larger batteries are bulkier, and with the same energy density, they are also heavier. This extra weight can affect the vehicle's power performance, braking, energy consumption, and charging time.
 

So, how should you choose the battery for a fully electric vehicle? The answer is simple: If your driving scenarios require long-distance travel or lack charging facilities, opt for a larger battery, such as one with a 100kWh capacity and an 800km range. For city driving, a smaller battery will suffice, as it is more cost-effective, lowers the vehicle price, and charges faster.
 

Regarding battery types, if you prioritize safety and longevity, LFP batteries are a good choice. If you seek high range and performance, consider ternary lithium batteries. Another key advantage of ternary lithium batteries is their fast charging speed. They can charge more quickly than other types of lithium-ion batteries, thanks to the presence of nickel, cobalt, and manganese in the cathode materials, which enhance conductivity and electrochemical activity.
 

In summary:
Among the factors affecting electric vehicle performance, the battery plays a crucial role. A high-quality battery can reduce vehicle weight, extend range, and significantly improve driving performance, safety, and convenience. Just as the engine and transmission are vital to a gasoline-powered car, the battery is the core component of an electric vehicle. Therefore, when purchasing a new energy vehicle, consumers should first understand the battery technology of each model. After all, with a vehicle worth tens of thousands of dollars, no one wants to encounter battery failure.
 

There is no absolute "better" or "worse" when choosing an electric vehicle battery—only what suits your needs. Both ternary lithium batteries and LFP batteries have their strengths. CATL’s ternary lithium batteries and BYD’s LFP batteries are leaders in the industry. However, because ternary lithium batteries contain scarce metals, which are in limited supply in China and largely imported, their costs are higher than LFP batteries. As a result, electric vehicles equipped with ternary lithium batteries generally have a higher price than those with LFP batteries.